Public Meetings - Golden, Colorado

The Community Sustainability Advisory Board (CSAB) of the City of Golden, Colorado, met in regular session at City Hall, 911 10th Street, Golden, CO, beginning at 6:04 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. The meeting covered water conservation and drought enforcement updates, a review of the residential Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) waste program bidding results, annual Chair and Vice-Chair elections, and staff/board project updates. The meeting was adjourned at 9:08 p.m. Welcome New Members & Oath of Office - Three new members were appointed to the Board: Adrienne Watts, Claybourne Clarke, and Jillian Matheson. Each introduced themselves and shared their sustainability backgrounds (e.g., environmental law and climate policy, building energy, and corporate sustainability/circularity). - The Board thanked outgoing members Travis Abbott and Alison Schwabe for their service. Travis Abbott attended in person with his son and expressed willingness to remain engaged as a resource. - New members took the oath of office, administered by staff. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was amended to add two items to Staff Updates: Bike Walk Golden support and recruitment of a CSAB volunteer representative for the Special Events Review Committee. Motion by Jill Engel-Cox, second by Martha Gerdes. Approved 6:13 p.m. - Approval of Minutes (March 31, 2026): Jill Engel-Cox requested a revision to the Sustainability Awards section to identify the specific award recipients. Motion by Carrie Atiyeh, second by Martha Gerdes. Approved 6:19 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the scheduled public comment period, which closed at 6:19 p.m. - During the PAYT agenda item, representatives from two bidding haulers were invited to present and answer Board questions: - 5280 Waste Solutions // Compost Colorado: John Meier (Director of Sales), Noah Kaplan (President), and a composting representative highlighted their local, Colorado-based customer service model; a dedicated Program Coordinator for education and outreach; and their in-vessel composting operation in partnership with the National Western Center. They stated their vehicles are currently diesel and that they lack infrastructure for electric trucks, but are exploring options and grants. - Republic Services: Steve Gilmore (Municipal Manager) emphasized Republic's status as the largest composter in the United States, its investment of $7 million in a new organics transfer station at Foothills Landfill, the availability of all-electric collection trucks for a premium, and its track record of service continuity in Golden. He noted EV trucks cost roughly $1 million each versus roughly $430,000 for a conventional truck, and that contamination rates regionally run about 20–25%. Discussion Items Water Conservation Updates (Katie Duke, Water Efficiency Coordinator) - Katie Duke reported that drought restrictions have been in effect for three full weeks. City staff reviewed just over 500 accounts (including leaks) and issued warning letters to approximately 56% of those accounts (about 280 accounts). Warning letters are being sent before enforcement actions, consistent with the City's planned approach. - Ongoing programs remain available: free water-wise virtual seminars, the lawn replacement program through Resource Central (including a new commercial property lawn replacement option), the Garden in a Box program, and free Slow the Flow irrigation audits. - Preliminary water use data from the months before restrictions were higher than the five-year average, partly due to dry conditions requiring hand-watering and drip irrigation for trees. - Board members expressed strong interest in City-owned property water use, specifically parks, the cemetery, and the golf course, noting the golf course's water use is largely non-potable and that the City should demonstrate leadership by communicating what City facilities are doing to conserve. Members requested a future discussion with Parks Department staff (Kelsey Stansfield) and asked to review the golf course drought management plan. Katie Duke noted the drought plan is due for review next year (year three of the plan). Residential Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) Waste Program Recommendation - Staff (Theresa Worsham, Sustainability Manager) presented the results of the public bidding process for the next five-year residential waste collection contract. The current contract with Republic Services expires August 31, 2026; the new contract would begin September 1, 2026, with City Council review scheduled for June 9, 2026. - Four bids were received: Apex Waste Company, 5280 Waste Solutions, Republic Services, and Waste Management. Apex was excluded from consideration for submitting a blank proposal and failing to respond to follow-up requests. - Pricing was compared on a net basis after applying anticipated State of Colorado Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Program reimbursements (established by HB22-1355 in 2022). When EPR reimbursement is applied, 5280 offered the lowest rates for most service categories. Example net monthly rates for 32-gallon trash service: 5280 $6.38, Republic $9.06, WM $12.63 (current Golden rate: $11.50, which includes cart maintenance fees). - The contract design holds rates steady for Years 1–2, allows a 3% increase in Years 3–4, and holds rates steady in Year 5. Staff does not recommend adopting Republic's alternative annual CPI-based increase option or WM's requested additional rate increases. - Staff recommended awarding the contract to 5280 Waste Solutions based on price, Colorado-based customer service, truck/equipment flexibility for alleys, and potential for greater waste diversion progress through compost infrastructure and education. Staff also noted that a new contract provision requires Colorado-based customer service. - Board deliberation: Members did not endorse either finalist hauler. Instead, the Board directed that its priorities be incorporated into the staff memo to City Council. Key Board priorities included: - Electric vehicles (EVs) as a visible demonstration of sustainability leadership; several members supported prioritizing EV collection trucks, noting that EPR reimbursements could help offset the premium, though at least one member (Jill Engel-Cox) stated they did not see a clear overall climate benefit and preferred focusing on diversion-related climate impacts. - Waste diversion: The Board emphasized the need to move beyond the stagnant 35% diversion rate and called for the City to take a much stronger role in education and outreach in partnership with whichever hauler is selected. - EPR reimbursement uncertainty: Members flagged that EPR rates varied significantly among bidders and asked that this be highlighted for Council. - Cart maintenance fees: The Board requested that cart maintenance fees (estimated at roughly $3.50/month for three carts) be included in rate comparisons presented to Council. - Hauler experience and continuity: Members noted the City's history of small haulers being acquired (EDS bought by WM, Alpine bought by GFL) and asked that Council be made aware of the relative lack of a Front Range municipal track record for 5280 versus Republic's five-year record in Golden. Board Elections - The Board held annual elections for Chair and Vice Chair for one-year terms (June 2026 through May 2027), as required by the Golden Municipal Code. - Chair: Todd Collins – elected unanimously. - Vice Chair: Carrie Atiyeh – elected unanimously. - The Board also confirmed Martha Gerdes as the CSAB representative to the Special Events Review Committee, with Jill Engel-Cox as alternate. Current Projects & Staff Updates - Bike Walk Golden Grant: The Board agreed to provide a $1,000 grant to Bike Walk Golden for its community transportation map project, consistent with past grant amounts and the Board's sustainability goals. - Upcoming Events: - June 3, 2026: Business-focused battery backup workshop, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Gnarly's. - June 9, 2026: City Council review and contract award of the next residential waste hauling contract; electric trash truck demonstration event for downtown residents and businesses. - June 22 (morning) and June 23 (evening), 2026: Downtown walking events with city staff regarding the proposed Downtown Waste Collection District. - June 24, 2026: Bike to Work Day event at Vanover Park, 6–9 a.m. - Sustainability Rebates: As of the meeting, 36 applications totaling $32,012.75 had been awarded from a $100,000 annual budget, with several more pending. - Fleet Electrification: City Council approved several new EV purchases on April 14, 2026, including 2026 EV Blazers and EV Silverados replacing older gasoline vehicles across multiple departments. Two new public EV charging stations are now live at Splash and Beverly Heights Park, bringing the city-owned total to 24 charging spaces. - Other Updates: The Love My Air program's IGA with Jefferson County Public Health will be renewed in June; the final draft of the greenhouse gas inventory (2024 data) is expected in late May; and the annual Board retreat is planned for June 24. Agenda Topics for June 24, 2026 Meeting - Greenhouse gas inventory review - Water update - Downtown waste district Key Outcomes - Water Conservation: The Board requested that staff coordinate a future session with Parks Department staff to discuss drought management on City properties, including the golf course and parks, and to share the golf course drought management plan. - PAYT Contract: The Board declined to endorse a specific hauler and instead forwarded a list of sustainability-focused priorities and considerations to City Council for the June 9, 2026 contract award decision. The Board also requested that cart maintenance fees be included in Council rate comparisons. - Board Elections: Todd Collins elected Chair; Carrie Atiyeh elected Vice Chair (both unanimous, one-year terms). - Grant: $1,000 approved for Bike Walk Golden's transportation map. - Special Events Committee: Martha Gerdes confirmed as CSAB representative, with Jill Engel-Cox as alternate. - Next Regular Meeting: June 24, 2026.

The Community Marketing Board convened for its kick-off meeting on May 26, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30 AM Mountain Time. The primary agenda item was presentations from four finalist agencies vying to become the City of Golden's Agency of Record (AOR) for destination marketing. The board also reviewed the 2025 sales tax, lodging tax, and use tax reports, as well as the current marketing budget and spending. The meeting concluded with a discussion on next steps for selecting an agency. Public Comments & Testimony - No formal public comments were made, though the board briefly discussed the recently released visitor's guide, which received compliments for its updated content and focus on responsible recreation. Agency of Record Finalist Presentations Four agencies presented their qualifications, approach, and proposed strategies for Visit Golden. Each was given 10 minutes to present followed by 5 minutes of Q&A. Bonfire Collective (Erik Lambert, CEO; Jon Crays, Creative Director) - Emphasized their local presence (based in downtown Golden) and deep community ties. Stressed the importance of conducting strategy work before presenting creative solutions. Highlighted their "Bonfire Method" of integrated thinking across tourism, outdoor recreation, conservation, and nonprofits. Showcased case studies: Alpenglow Expeditions (brand elevation leading to acquisition) and Winter Park Resort (50th anniversary campaign for Mary Jane that set a single-day skier visit record). Positioned themselves as strategic collaborators who will work with the forthcoming strategic plan and other partners. DVA Advertising & Public Relations (Mary Angelo, Partner/Director of Client Services; Christian Folk, Digital Director) - A 36-year-old firm based in Bend, OR, with a focus on mountain town destinations. Mary Angelo lives in Durango, CO, and would be the day-to-day account lead. Partnered with Datafy (Golden's existing data provider) for attribution and measurement. Presented Sedona, AZ case study: conducted extensive resident sentiment research (found 90% visitor approval but strong local dissatisfaction), developed strategy to shift winter visitation from Phoenix to higher-value flight markets, and created stewardship-forward creative. Emphasized tailored approach and not a one-size-fits-all. Proposed budget: $110,000 in fees, $170,000 in media = $280,000 total. Madden Media + Karsh Hagan (KH+Madden) (Jessica Hill, SVP Destination Strategy; Melissa Pert, SVP Head of Integrated Media) - A merged national agency with strong Colorado roots. Highlighted their in-house programmatic buying arm (MXKH) and partnership with The Trade Desk, enabling premium rates and advanced attribution. Proposed a creative concept, "Stay Golden," positioned as an invitation and value statement. Showcased channel mix including CTV, paid social, geofencing, and influencer partnerships. Mentioned experience with Healdsburg, CA, where they drove midweek visitation by targeting lifestyle audiences. Budget: $125,000 fees + $155,000 media = $280,000 total. Resonance Consultancy + Orange 142 (Chris Fair, President; Jake Buganski, VP Strategy; Dominic Prevost, VP Creative; Beth, Destination Consultant; Cliff Ward, Orange 142) - Global placemaking and strategy firm, partnered with media agency Orange 142. Presented three creative "what if" territories: "The Gold Standard" (timeless, craft, quality), "Nothing Shines Like Golden" (light, optimism, connection), and "We're Golden" (playful, confident, challenger brand). Emphasized research-driven approach and experience with resident sentiment (e.g., Manitou Springs). Orange 142 highlighted their media attribution methodology using polygon maps to measure foot traffic to specific zones. Budget: $109,750 fees + $170,250 media = $280,000 total. Budget Review & Sales Tax Report Review Derek Schimmel, Community Marketing Field Manager, presented the 2025 tax reports and current marketing fund budget. 2025 Sales Tax: Total collections of $25,182,360 (net of Community Marketing Fund allocation), a 4.11% increase over 2024. Sales tax grew for the fourth consecutive year, though it finished $773,640 below budget. Out-of-city sales (e.g., online, auto) grew 12.78%, while CoorsTek category declined 16.13%. The Community Marketing Fund receives 2.5% of sales tax collected from timely returns. 2025 Lodging Tax: Total $2,875,316, which was $224,684 below budget but still outpaced the prior three years. December 2025 collections were $15,177 above December 2024. 2025 Use Tax: Total $6,058,081, up 17.19% from 2024 and a strong year. Current Budget Status: As of May 1, 2026, the community marketing fund has spent on salaries, media buying (spring campaign), Golden Welcome Center, special events, creative/PR services (Meadows PR/Mission to Market), and web licensing. The board noted that the $30,000 budgeted for group sales remains unallocated but may be utilized following the strategic plan. Key Outcomes - The board will create a scorecard to evaluate the four agency proposals based on the RFP and presentations. Derek Schimmel will circulate a scorecard and request presentation slides from each finalist. - A decision on the Agency of Record will be made at the next board meeting (June 2026), with the goal of onboarding the selected agency in July to align with the delivery of the forthcoming strategic plan. - The board will continue to receive monthly budget updates and quarterly sales tax reports to monitor the community marketing fund. - The city is transitioning its website away from Granicus, with a new contract with a tourism-focused agency through 2027.

The Golden City Council held its regular business meeting on May 26, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. All seven council members were present. The council approved consent items including the first reading of an ordinance to finance improvements at Fossil Trace Golf Club, issued two proclamations (National Gun Violence Awareness Day and LGBTQI+ Pride Month), and heard council comments including a formal protest from Councilor Cameron regarding an intergovernmental agreement with the Colorado School of Mines. The meeting adjourned at 6:47 p.m. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 12, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Ordinance No. 2295 (First Reading): Authorizes a lease purchase to finance improvements at Fossil Trace Golf Club, including replacement of a pump station that serves the golf club and other water utility customers with non-potable water for irrigation, and irrigation system improvements. The motion to introduce and order the ordinance published was approved unanimously. The second reading and public hearing are set for June 9, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - One public comment was received via email and published on the website. Mayor Weinberg noted the comment was forwarded to the city team for follow-up. No in-person public comments were made. Discussion Items - Council/Staff Comments: Councilor Pfau acknowledged the Memorial Day Remembrance Celebration at Golden Cemetery, sponsored by VFW Post 4171, American Legion Post 21, Golden Lions Club, and Daughters of the American Revolution. Mayor Pro Tem Vitry thanked the United States Marine Memorial Foundation for an invitation to speak at their Memorial Day ceremony. Councilor Evans announced a "Cookies with a Councilor" event and ribbon-cutting for Ulysses Park renovations on June 1 at 5:30 p.m. Councilor Cameron introduced a new email address (emotosafety@cityofgolden.gov) for reporting unsafe e-moto riding and shared safety information about helmet ratings and stopping distances. Councilor Knecht noted that Splash is now open for the season. Mayor Weinberg reminded councilors of the Colorado Municipal League district meeting on Thursday evening in Arvada. - Formal Protest by Councilor Cameron: Councilor Cameron read a formal protest into the record regarding the approval of Resolution 3306 (an intergovernmental agreement with the Colorado School of Mines) from the May 12, 2026, council meeting. He stated that the agreement lacks a definition of trail quality and does not hold Mines accountable for maintenance on city-owned property. He emphasized that his protest did not impugn any councilor's motives and exercised his right under council rules. The protest was recorded. Proclamations - National Gun Violence Awareness Day (June 5, 2026): Read by Councilor Cameron. The proclamation cited that over 110 Americans are killed by gun violence daily, Colorado had 10 mass shootings in 2025 (the highest in a decade), with 92 gun deaths (rate 17.5 per 100,000), costing the state $11.4 billion annually. It encouraged wearing orange on June 5–7 and responsible gun ownership. Robin Shinn of Moms Demand Action accepted the proclamation, reading a statement emphasizing prevention and safe storage practices. - LGBTQI+ Pride Month (June 2026): Read by Councilor Evans. The proclamation affirmed Golden as a welcoming, inclusive community and urged residents to celebrate diversity and build a culture of acceptance. It was accepted by those in attendance. Key Outcomes - Consent matters (minutes and first reading of Ordinance 2295) were approved by a unanimous vote of 7-0. - Both proclamations were formally issued. - Ordinance 2295 was set for second reading and public hearing on June 9, 2026. - Councilor Cameron's formal protest regarding Resolution 3306 was entered into the official record. - The meeting adjourned at 6:47 p.m.

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) met on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at 911 10th Street, Golden, CO. The meeting covered routine approvals, public comments on trail safety and park needs, elections for board leadership, an update on the Clear Creek Trail widening design, summer creek and drought management, the Lions Park playground project, and follow-up on a May capital planning study session. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda without changes. - Approved the April 16, 2026 regular meeting minutes (motion by Michele Minihane, second by Kermit Shields, unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Kaylin Bope and Cass (Golden residents) requested creation of a small pocket park in their neighborhood north of CO 58 and east of Ford Street, identified as a park desert in the 2008 master plan. They presented maps of several potential city-owned parcels and noted a large number of young families in the area. They suggested shifting resources from renovation of Cressman Gulch Park (where usage has declined) to a new pocket park. - Scott Anderson (640 11th Street, Millstone Condos) expressed strong opposition to the proposed widening of the south Clear Creek Trail between Washington Avenue and Ford Street. He described multiple serious accidents (including a resident hospitalized after being hit by a bike), blind intersections, and speeding e-bikes. He argued the widening would not solve safety problems and urged routing the Peaks to Plains trail away from that corridor, perhaps to 10th Street. - Lena (640 11th Street, Millstone Condos) echoed safety concerns and questioned the rationale for a 2-2.5 foot widening given limited peak usage and high insurance costs from prior changes (e.g., Kinney Run project). She requested visual renderings of the finished trail from the condos' perspective and asked for an independent engineering assessment of floodplain and structural impacts. - Lori Sweaton (640 11th Street, Millstone Condos) opposed the widening, stating it was a temporary fix for a long-term route (Church Ditch) 10 years away. She suggested using 8th Street as an interim alternative because it is wider and connects to the planned bypass. Discussion Items - Chair and Vice-Chair Elections (10 minutes) - Forbes Cone was re-elected as Chair for a second year. Catherine Hansen-Stamp was re-elected as Vice-Chair. Both were nominated and approved without objection. - Clear Creek Trail Widening Update – Matt Wempe, Principal Planner (30 minutes) - Wempe presented the background: a 2024 alternatives analysis identified a near-term option to widen the south Clear Creek Trail by 2–2.5 feet (to 10–12 feet) between Illinois Street/Billy Drew Bridge and Ford Street, and a long-term option (Church Ditch trail near SH 58). Design is at 90% completion; construction is unfunded. Public engagement included a May 5 open house (35 attendees), an online survey (40 responses), and ongoing feedback. - PRAB members questioned the benefit of widening given limited peak congestion, safety at the Millstone Condo blind intersection, and whether dismount zones, speed warnings, or trail lighting could be alternative measures. Wempe noted that enforcement is challenging and that the widening is a modest improvement. The project will compete for funding in the upcoming parks capital improvement program. - Staff committed to further review of safety improvements at the intersection near Millstone and to incorporate feedback from a June 10 meeting with the Millstone HOA. A second round of public engagement is planned for late summer 2026. - Summer Creek and Drought Plan Updates – Jeremy Sweat (15 minutes) - Creek flow was 85 CFS (cubic feet per second) the prior week, very low. The city is in Stage 1 drought restrictions. Parks watering is reduced 15%, with priority at Lions Park, Parfet Park, and athletic fields. The golf course is also reducing water. Creek ambassador hiring is underway. The city is coordinating with commercial float operators about possible shorter runs. - Lions Park Playground Project Update – Rheana Rogers (5 minutes) - Public engagement closed May 11 with 135 online survey responses plus in-person voting. Concept 3 (playground moved up the hillside with a large native garden) received 64% support. Concept 2 (with a water feature) received 26%. If additional grant funding is available, a water feature could be added later. Design will now advance; construction target is late 2026/early 2027 while keeping existing playground open as long as possible. - May Study Session Follow-Up (15 minutes) - PRAB members received a homework spreadsheet to test a new capital prioritization tool using real (slightly modified) city projects. Deadline for feedback to staff is June 1. The project list includes both new park development and existing park renovations. The board will discuss results at the June 4 study session. Jeremy Sweat clarified the tool aims to help prioritize projects for future budget cycles. Key Outcomes - Chair/Vice-Chair: Forbes Cone reappointed as Chair, Catherine Hansen-Stamp as Vice-Chair (unanimous). - Lions Park Concept: Concept 3 selected for detailed design (no formal vote, but consensus from engagement results). - Clear Creek Trail: No formal action; feedback recorded; staff will refine design and return to PRAB with revised plans. - Drought Operations: Stage 1 continues; parks irrigation reduced; athletic fields and golf course to be maintained at reduced levels. - Capital Planning: Homework assignment due June 1; study session scheduled for June 4, 2026 to review prioritization tool. - Noxious Weed Management Plan: Presented to City Council on May 12; plan not yet approved; public education campaign being developed. - Ulysses Park Lighting: Copper theft from lighting system; repairs being quoted; timeline unknown. - Next PRAB Regular Meeting: July 16, 2026 (standard monthly schedule).

May 20, 2026, the Golden Planning Commission met at 5:30 p.m. in regular session to consider a proposed Urban Renewal Plan area boundary for affordable housing, conduct elections for Chair and Vice Chair, and then adjourned to a study session on historic preservation design guidelines. The meeting was called to order by Chair Ross Fraser, and all eight commissioners were present. The session concluded with adjournment at 6:33 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda (5:30 p.m.): Moved by Rutter, seconded by Webb. Passed 7-0 voice vote. - Approval of Minutes of April 1, 2026: Moved by Hilliard, seconded by Rutter. Passed 7-0 voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comment (5:32–5:32 p.m.): No speakers appeared; comment period closed without testimony. - Written comment on PC26-22: One email was received (posted online in the packet) objecting to the use of the term "blight" for the property and neighborhood. The commenter argued the area is not a slum or blighted. Discussion Items - Regular Business – PC26-22: 17455 W. 16th Ave. GURA Plan Area Boundary - Staff presented the proposed urban renewal plan area boundary for a single 2.4-acre property owned by the Church of the Nazarene, zoned R-2. The purpose is to enable tax increment financing (TIF) to support redevelopment as affordable housing (targeting 80-120% AMI). The urban renewal area would capture incremental tax revenue for 25 years. - Commissioners questioned: whether the tight boundary precludes TIF funding for adjacent improvements (e.g., sidewalks) – GURA director confirmed it does not; why this property when similar conditions exist elsewhere – staff explained the opportunity arose from the church approaching GURA; and the blight findings (asbestos, deferred maintenance, failing HVAC, unsafe parking configuration). - Commissioner Klein noted that Comprehensive Plan goal CN.1 (improving water quality, reducing runoff) was marked “not applicable” in the staff analysis, despite drainage issues cited in the professional memo. Staff acknowledged the oversight and agreed to revise the analysis to include a finding that future development would rectify drainage and further that goal. - Commissioners generally found the proposal consistent with the 2026 Comprehensive Plan and the South Golden Road Neighborhood Plan (2016), noting alignment with housing diversity, affordable housing, transit proximity, and park access goals. The developer (Shanahan Development) and Elevation Land Trust are involved. A conceptual plan shows 47 townhomes. - Commission Elections - The Commission nominated and elected a Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming term. Key Outcomes - PC26-22 – GURA Plan Area Boundary: Motion by Rutter, seconded by Webb, to APPROVE Resolution PC26-22 and forward it to City Council, finding the proposed urban renewal plan conforms with the 2026 Comprehensive Plan, including goal CN.1. Passed 6-1 (roll call), with Commissioner Hilliard dissenting. The dissenting vote was Hilliard. - Chair Election: Commissioner Rutter nominated Fraser to continue as Chair. Approved 7-0 voice vote. - Vice Chair Election: Commissioner Rutter nominated Webb for Vice Chair. Approved 7-0 voice vote. Study Session – Historic Preservation Design Guidelines - Staff (Lauren Simmons and Lucas Markley) presented an overview of Golden’s preservation history, current guidelines, and proposed updates. The draft guidelines aim to focus on architectural styles rather than site planning (now covered by zoning code) and to address styles up to the 1970s (including commercial and mid-century). - A central discussion point was the level of authority for the Historic Preservation Board: current (voluntary compliance), partial (e.g., ability to grant setback relief for historic structures), or full (binding design and zoning decisions within districts). Commissioners engaged in a “quiz” on potential regulatory areas, including roof styles, materials, porches, accessory structures, lot layout, building placement, and architectural design flexibility. - Commissioners offered input: many supported giving the Historic Board partial authority with formal recommendations to Planning Commission rather than full decision-making; some emphasized the need for interaction between boards. There was general support for allowing the Board to regulate materials, roof shapes, porch design, and accessory structure design (especially if visible from the street), and for flexibility in setbacks and building placement to encourage preservation. - Next steps: staff will take feedback to the Historic Board, develop draft ordinance language, and potentially convene a focus group of former board/commission members. A second draft of guidelines and zoning amendments is anticipated in late summer.

The Golden Downtown Development Authority held its regular business meeting on May 18, 2026 at 5:30 PM at 911 Tenth Street. The board welcomed new member Terry Weber, elected new officers, received public comments on the Peak to Plains Trail, and discussed several project updates and funding proposals. Consent Calendar - Approved the April 20, 2026 Business Meeting minutes unanimously. - Approved the May 18, 2026 agenda unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Melissa Anderson (Millstone resident): Raised safety concerns about the Peak to Plains Trail extension, noting the plan would widen the south creek trail and remove green buffer. She highlighted the area is a FEMA floodplain and asked for alternatives along 10th Street to avoid a bottleneck between Ford and Washington for cyclists, e-bikes, and pedestrians. - John Mullins (Millstone resident): Opposed the project, questioning its origins (Russian olive removal) and urging a traffic study. He asked that vegetation be preserved, no fence installed where the path meets the creek, and speed bumps considered. He requested the DDA use its influence to slow the project. - Additional residents (unidentified): Expressed similar concerns, noting they learned of plans only recently. Discussion Items - Welcome New Member & Oath: Terry Weber (owner of Faith Tattoo Gallery, a 23-year-old downtown business) was appointed by City Council. He took the oath of office administered by the board. - Election of Officers and Committee Liaisons: - Chair: Jeff Merenkov nominated and elected unanimously (replaces Chris Ball). - Vice Chair: Tim Gerhold nominated and elected unanimously. - Committees assigned: Development Subcommittee – Chris Ball, Brad Miller, Tim Gerhold (alternate); Grants Subcommittee – Terry Weber, Jeff Merenkov, Tamara Munroe (alternate); Special Events Review Committee Liaison – Tamara Munroe (with Terry Weber continuing as downtown business representative); 12th Street Plaza Ad Hoc Committee – Brad Miller and Jeff Merenkov (continuing). - Stakeholder and Land Owner Communications Update: Staff (Tim Dwyer, Baxter Richardson) reported continued outreach to key landowners. Mentioned the May 9th Coffee with Councilors event where urban renewal and DDA were explained. Announced a Business Power Resiliency event on June 3rd at Gnarly’s Theater from 10am-1pm, citywide, with panelists including Woody’s owner John Bortles. The event will showcase solutions for power outages (PSPS). Board member Jeff Merenkov suggested inviting Xcel for rebate info, but staff chose to focus on solutions. - Grant Subcommittee Report: No new grants to review. However, a late-summer midweek evening activation proposal was floated by community marketing partners (Visit Golden). The idea would involve micro-grants ( $100-200 per business) for balloon artists, face painters, musicians to draw residents. Board discussion was mixed: Chris Ball and Brad Miller were receptive; Terry Weber opposed, citing negative experiences with Santa Fe Art Walk (drinking, security issues). Tim Gerhold was open. No formal vote; staff will gather more input. - 12th Street Plaza Ad Hoc Committee: Brad Miller reported they are finalizing an action plan to present at the next meeting. - Development Subcommittee: No meeting since last report. - Special Events Review Committee: Terry Weber reported increased use of the online event application system, earlier submissions, and better coordination with Parks and Rec for grass/tree protection. Shuttle usage at Goldzigold was strong. - Staff Report – Budget Tracker: Steve Glueck presented the 2026 Budget Tracker (as of 5/14/2026). Year-to-date revenues: $573,454 (mostly property tax increment at $307,402 and 5-mil levy at $229,811). Expenditures YTD: $256,212, including holiday lights ($26,081), grants ($221,864 – mainly PSPS-related), and operating costs ($7,252). Development reserve net of liabilities is $2,876,562. - Project Updates: - 817 14th Street affordable housing (Habitat for Humanity): Demolition underway; 40-44 for-sale deed-restricted units. Event June 3rd. - Golden Hotel patio renovation nearly complete; grand opening June 1st at 5pm. - Clayworks: Tenant finish in Building 1; demo/exterior work on second building. Gateway improvements discussed with Clayworks. - Undergrounding overhead utilities on Ford Street: Xcel willing to scope but requires location for a switchbox; cost unknown. - East Zone construction plans: Proposals received; council award expected June 9th. Includes landscaping and preliminary engineering for Archer Street to Ford Street. - Prospector Alley: City requested 50% DDA contribution ($60,000-70,000 of $120,000-140,000 estimate). To be on next month’s agenda. - Trail underpass (north trail): City management not supportive in 2026 due to liability issues with retaining wall. Board expressed interest in pushing forward; staff will investigate. - Crosswalk markings: Pilot at 13th & Washington approved; city engineer will implement this summer. - Sustainability: Grant received for electric truck; walkabouts planned in June. - Commissioners’ Comments: Sandra Knecht commended the Coffee with Councilors event. Brad Miller reported a damaged curb at 11th & Washington (near Golden Hotel) – already reported via Fix It, awaiting repair. Tim Gerhold promoted the Golden Hotel patio grand opening. Key Outcomes - Elected Jeff Merenkov as Chair and Tim Gerhold as Vice Chair, effective immediately. - Assigned committee liaisons as noted. - Directed staff to bring a formal proposal for the Prospector Alley funding (50% cost share) to the June meeting. - Asked staff to create a revolving calendar of annual DDA activities (budget season, elections) and schedule a visioning session for the board. - Requested staff investigate the Peak to Plains Trail issue and report status; board will monitor and may engage with Parks and Rec (meeting Thursday May 21 at 6pm). - Encouraged staff to continue discussions on the trail underpass despite city management’s current reluctance. - Agreed to explore the midweek evening activation idea further, with staff gathering more stakeholder feedback.

Date: May 14, 2026 | Time: 6:30 PM – 7:40 PM | Location: Council Chambers, 911 10th St., Golden, CO The Economic Development Commission (EDComm) held its regular business meeting on May 14, 2026, chaired by Tracy Atkins. The commission approved a $1,500 sponsorship for the Golden Chamber of Commerce Business Summit, allocated $500 for a Colorado School of Mines Career Fair table, elected new officers, and received staff updates on economic development activities, budget status, and upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved with a motion to reorder Items 5.1 and 5.2 (sponsorship and funding requests before elections). - Approval of April 9, 2026 Meeting Notes: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Erin Chamberlain, Membership Director of the Golden Chamber of Commerce, presented the sponsorship request for the Golden Business Summit. She highlighted the summit’s programming, including a keynote by Anthony Lambatos on company culture and a workshop on AI policy by Andrew Moore (CIO, Colorado School of Mines). She noted that the summit has grown from 40 attendees in 2023 to 100 in 2025, and that sponsorship helps keep ticket prices accessible ($100 for members, $179 for non-members). The chamber is piloting a weekday farmers market on Wednesdays starting June 10, 2026, at Golden High School. Discussion Items - Chamber of Commerce Business Summit Sponsorship Request ($1,500): Commissioners discussed the budget—$6,800 already spent from a $10,000 sponsorship line item, with $3,000 in miscellaneous funds available. The event aligns with EDComm’s business retention and development goals. The request was approved unanimously. - Elections (Chair and Vice Chair): Per updated City Council Rules of Procedure, elections were held in May. Tracy Atkins was term-limited as Chair. Lauren Hartman was nominated and elected Chair; Tracy Atkins was nominated and elected Vice Chair. Both positions were approved by acclamation. - Colorado School of Mines Career Fair Table Funding ($500): Staff proposed sponsoring a table at the Fall 2026 Career Fair (September 16–17) to promote Golden businesses to students. The fair is the largest in the Rocky Mountain region. Past participation included a local engineering firm that received 70–80 student inquiries. The commission approved the funding unanimously. - Staff Report: - 2026 Budget: Up-to-date; $35,000 remains in the grant program (one grant awarded so far). $10,000 allocated for entrepreneurship/innovation, with discussions ongoing with Traction and Golden Startup Network. A feasibility study for a makerspace is pending—RFP responses were limited. - Business Retention & Economic Development: Staff visited the CoreTech Academy training facility, which offers free CNC machining, forklift simulation, and other workforce development classes. The SBDC (Small Business Development Center) has resumed operations at Red Rocks Community College. A PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoff) resilience event is scheduled for June 3, 2026 at Gnarly's (10 AM – 1 PM), with live streaming and recording. - New Businesses: Call Your Mother Bagels opened at 1106 Washington Ave.; Morrison Mercantile is moving to Washington Ave. under the name “Stay Golden” (kitchen goods). The Golden Hotel completed its creekside patio renovation. The Coal development on West Colfax is nearing opening, with a coffee shop and live-work units. - Sales, Use, and Lodging Tax Reports: Not available; will be provided next month. - Communications: - GURA/DDA: GURA is moving forward with a plan area for Jackson Street improvements and a condition survey; DDA is focusing on property owner engagement. - Golden Chamber of Commerce: Upcoming events include “What’s Brewing Golden” (May 19) with the new Red Rocks Community College president, and the opening of the Golden Farmers Market on Saturdays (May 30) and a pilot weekday market on Wednesdays (June 10). - Community Marketing Committee: Hiring a consultant for strategic planning; exploring a locals event and potential opportunities related to the Sundance Film Festival overflow. - Commissioner Comments: Tracy Atkins reported that the Golden Makers Social Club kickoff event had about 75 attendees with strong energy. Key Outcomes - Approved: $1,500 sponsorship for the Golden Chamber of Commerce Business Summit (November 4, 2026). - Elected: Lauren Hartman as Chair, Tracy Atkins as Vice Chair. - Approved: $500 for a Colorado School of Mines Fall 2026 Career Fair table. - Referral: Staff will continue promoting the grant program and exploring maker space feasibility study consultants. - Next Steps: The next EDComm meeting is scheduled for June 2026; the PSPS resilience event is June 3, 2026. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM.

The Citizens Budget Advisory Committee (CBAC) met on May 13, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. in City Council Chambers, Golden, CO. The meeting covered finance department updates, a comprehensive creek management presentation, city updates on capital projects and police chief selection, community conversations on wildfire preparedness, and coordination of the remainder of the 2026 calendar. All routine agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Agenda: Unanimously approved. - Approval of April 15, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes: Unanimously approved. Discussion Items Finance Department Updates (Joe Allaire, Director of Finance) - The city’s senior/low-income/disabled property tax refund program saw 791 submissions in 2024 and 926 in 2025, an increase attributed to enhanced marketing efforts. - Sales tax reports for the first three months of 2026 will be presented at the June meeting; the department expects to be fully caught up by July. - The 2025 audit continues without significant issues; a trial balance is expected by mid-May. - The finance department is nearly fully staffed after hiring two new accountants and promoting a part-time sales tax clerk to an AP role. - Discussion on short-term rentals: Staff collects license data and uses a contractor to scrub listing websites; enforcement is complaint-driven. CBAC requested a follow-up from Community Development on short-term rental trends. - The long-range debt policy review was considered closed for the year without additional questions. Creek Management (Carly Lorentz, Deputy City Manager) - The city aims to balance resident and visitor experiences on Clear Creek through data-driven, incremental strategies. - Key data: Overall tubing traffic decreased 5.7% in 2025 vs. 2024; weekday tubing fell 23.5%, weekend tubing fell 6.1%; the peak day was 10% lower than the previous year. - Data is collected via cameras with tube-counting technology; RFID tagging has been phased out. - New policies for 2026 include lowering the safety flag threshold from 700 to 600 CFS (unlikely to be used due to low flows) and continuing the Saturday outfitter rental restriction during Buffalo Bill Days. - Outfitter fees generate about $50,000 annually toward creek management; a $5 fee is also charged on tube sales at Golden Goods. - Concerns for 2026: Very low water levels (peak so far 80 CFS versus typical 800 CFS in June/July; worse than 2002’s drought). Potential issues include a shorter, more crowded tube run, increased safety risks (scrapes from rocks, bacteria in stagnant water), reduced sales tax revenue, and heightened fire danger. The city is working with Visit Golden to offer alternative activities. - Staffing: Four seasonal code enforcement officers (plus full-time) are expected to be in place; creek ambassador return rate is 80%. - Water quality monitoring and fish health are ongoing; fire chief participates in weekly creek coordination meetings. - Community feedback included suggestions for a first‑aid tent at Vanover Park and a public relations video highlighting management efforts. City Updates (Scott Vargo, City Manager) - Police and Municipal Building: The “topping out” ceremony occurred—final wood beam placed. Exterior work continues; occupancy expected in over a year. - Police Chief Selection: A meet‑and‑greet with finalists will be held May 20 from 5:00–6:30 p.m. at the Golden Community Center (GCC), followed by final interviews. - A new wildfire preparedness website consolidates city initiatives and property owner guidance; details will be in the weekly city highlights. - A regional homelessness forum (second annual) focused on renewing IGAs for cold-weather sheltering and navigation services; the regionally coordinated point‑in‑time count showed an increase in Jefferson County but a slight decrease in Denver. - Sidewalk projects from 8th to 10th Street are unfunded for 2026; a DOLA grant application has been submitted for possible 2027 construction. Community Conversations - Committee members shared personal experiences with wildfire mitigation efforts, including a meeting with the fire marshal who conducts home assessments. Members discussed defensible space, building materials (e.g., HardiePlank siding), and landscaping. - Kathy Smith announced a Golden United community wellness series starting May 20 (Breath, Sound, and Stillness) and shared a link to a recording of the Jefferson Unitarian homelessness forum. 2026 Calendar Review - June: Changed to Public Works (from Funding Sources) to provide a CIP and capital projects overview. - July: New Police Chief presentation. - August: Funding Sources overview (moved from June), paired with CBAC Bylaws review. - September: Special Events presentation (instead of Parks and Rec) to recap summer events and discuss sales tax impacts. - October: Fire Department update. - November: Budget final recommendation and election of Chair/Vice Chair. - Future request: Planning & Zoning housing-related discussion early 2027. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the agenda and April minutes. - Long-range debt policy review closed for the year. - Calendar adjustments adopted by consensus: Public Works (June), New Police Chief (July), Funding Sources (August), Special Events (September), Fire Department (October). - Finance staff committed to delivering first-quarter sales tax reports by the June meeting and catching up on financial portal updates after the audit closes. - No formal motions or votes were taken on other items.

The City of Golden Historic Preservation Board met at City Hall (911 10th Street, Golden, CO) on May 13, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The evening opened with a 45-minute study session on the first draft of the Historic Preservation Design Guidelines ("Past Forward" initiative), followed by a regular meeting that included a Certificate of Appropriateness decision for a new house at 916 9th Street, an update on the 612 10th Street demolition stay, and election of new officers. Study Session — Historic Preservation Design Guidelines (1st Review) - New HPB members were introduced, and staff noted the meeting was the first use of updated Ordinance 1858. - Consultants Heather and Justin of Terracon presented the first public draft of the guidelines, which include district context statements and design guidelines for treatment of historic materials and building components. - The board participated in a survey/rating exercise and indicated it was "very important" for the HPB to regulate roof shapes and the design of accessory structures so they fit with the design of historic primary structures. - The board discussed whether the HPB should have authority to grant limited adjustments for historic and existing structures (e.g., for lot coverage and setbacks), and whether a Certificate of Appropriateness approval should satisfy zoning code requirements instead of requiring separate zoning compliance. One participant summarized the issue as whether "the historic board [should] have full authority to regulate and enforce design and zoning rules." - At least one board member took exception to a draft guideline element regarding homes that originally had flat roofs within the 8th and 9th Street Historic District. - Staff said the discussion would continue at the June HPB meeting, with a City Council study session targeted for August and additional public engagement opportunities to be announced. Consent Calendar - The minutes of April 8, 2026, were approved. (Note: the minutes document header in the agenda packet references "January 14, 2026," which conflicts with the agenda and the transcript's "April 8th" — a discrepancy in the source materials.) Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers came forward during the non-agenda public comment period. - Staff noted that a neighbor submitted a public comment late in the day; it was read into the record, and the comment periods were closed. Discussion Items HPB 26-02 — Certificate of Appropriateness: New House with Accessory Garage, 916 9th Street - Staff presented the application for a proposed new primary structure and accessory garage at 916 9th Street, a noncontributing property in the 8th and 9th Street Historic District. Staff noted the district's structures are generally more modest and less ornate (vernacular Edwardian styles) than other districts. - One board member stated they did not believe stone veneer is prevalent in the neighborhood or consistent with the district, commenting: "I just don't think it fits with the historic district, and that's what we're supposed to be evaluating." - An applicant representative responded that the project will not use stream stone but rather a "stack stone" (also called "mountain stone") commonly seen in Colorado. - The applicant's narrative stated the garage was designed to avoid a "competing gable effect" so the garage would not distract from the primary structure. HPB 26-01 (Update) — Demolition COA: 612 10th Street, the Schall Residence and Structures - The ad hoc committee (board members Rooney and Cook) provided a letter to City Council regarding the property. The board discussed the existing 126-day stay of demolition and discussed extending the stay to allow the applicant more time to explore alternatives. Other Matters — Past Forward Update - Staff announced additional public engagement opportunities for the Past Forward guidelines update and said the board would receive follow-up information the following month. Elections - The board elected a new chair and vice chair. Board member Eric concluded his two-year term as chair, and the new chair was noted to have been "thrown into the chair position" for the next term. Staff Updates - New board members were reminded of training requirements, with an in-person session available and an online/virtual option for those who could not attend in person. - The June meeting packet will include two cases plus a study session, and the design guidelines discussion will continue. Key Outcomes - Motion by Kalbfell, seconded by Cummings, to approve HPB 26-02: the board adopted Resolution HPB 26-02, granting a Certificate of Appropriateness for the new house and accessory garage at 916 9th Street, with the applicant required to return to the board for additional review before performing certain work. - Directed staff and consultants to continue refining the draft Historic Preservation Design Guidelines and return for further discussion at the June meeting. - Continued the 612 10th Street stay-of-demolition discussion; the ad hoc committee's letter was provided to City Council. - Elected a new chair and vice chair, concluding Eric's two-year term as chair.